Riverside Beat Priority Update

Good morning all, 

Please see the following monthly updates for the Riverside beat:

ASB in Open Spaces/Drug Related activity:

This month began with a strong start for the Riverside Beat, with officers executing three warrants in three days targeting drug-related activity 🚔. These operations resulted in the seizure of significant quantities of Class B drugs, weapons, cash, and suspected proceeds of crime 💼⚖️.

The first warrant uncovered a substantial cannabis grow, although no suspects were present 🌿. The second warrant, carried out at a student accommodation, led to the arrest of a 19‑year‑old male, who has since been bailed with conditions. The third warrant again found no one on scene, but officers recovered Class A drugs and clear evidence of drug dealing 📦🔍.

This month also saw two serious incidents in and around Castle Gardens. Since then, the beat team has been working closely with investigators to identify those responsible and has increased patrols in the park to maintain public safety and reassurance 👮‍♀️👮‍♂️🌳.

Residents of Pavilion Close reported that college students were gathering at a specific time to use drugs. Officers responded promptly, locating three individuals in possession of cannabis. Out‑of‑court disposals were issued as appropriate 📘✔️.

Burglary and Retail theft:

This month has brought a welcome decrease in reports of retail theft and burglaries 📉. Normally, this time of year sees a rise in these offences due to colder weather and darker nights, but proactive policing has helped turn the tide. Officers have increased their visibility across key locations, planning patrol routes based on previous reports and up‑to‑date intelligence to ensure they are exactly where they are needed 🚔🌙.

Our PCSOs have made a strong start to the year, delivering over 15 community engagement events 🗣️. These sessions give residents valuable crime‑prevention advice and safety tips to help reduce the chances of becoming a victim.

At the same time, our PCs have been actively targeting individuals wanted for theft‑related offences or outstanding on warrant 🎯. This focused approach is ensuring offenders are located, arrested, and brought before the courts for sentencing or further conditions—directly contributing to a reduction in crime and helping keep our communities safer ⚖️🔒.

Darker Nights:

As highlighted in the ASB update, Castle Gardens experienced two serious incidents during the darker hours this month 🌙. It’s understandable that this has caused concern for those who rely on the park as part of their daily route. In response, our PCs and PCSOs have increased patrols across the area to strengthen visibility and offer reassurance to park users 🚔.

Officers have also been conducting patrols and engagement along the routes surrounding the LRI, where there is a high volume of staff and visitors throughout the day and night 🚶‍♂️🚶‍♀️. In addition, dedicated safety sessions have been held with nursing staff at the hospital, giving them the opportunity to receive practical advice on personal safety and guidance on what to do if they ever feel unsafe or vulnerable 🏥🔍.

These enhanced patrols and engagement activities will continue in the coming weeks as we work to ensure everyone feels safe and supported across the area ✔️.

As always, if you have any concerns or issues, please get in touch via Neighbourhood Link, the Leicestershire police website, 101 or in case of an emergency, 999.

Stay safe and speak soon.

Sgt 1509 David Wilson